As TVIs, we tend to download and try various apps in hopes of finding one that fits our student’s needs in a more precise and pointed way. I have been using the Read2Go app (by Bookshare) with my students for well over 2 years now. I have found that it offers the best solution for consolidation of digital books for leisure and academic reading. I do appreciate the fact that the Read2Go app considers the needs of their visually impaired users. The app allows students to navigate digital books using Voiceover or the built in Audio Voice feature, as well as enlarged or color coded settings.

When working with Visually Impaired students, it would be helpful to teach the skill of utilizing the Read2Go app in a systematic way. For example, the checklist below (adapted from the Bookshare information guide) is based on the functions and layout of the Read2Go app.

The contents of the Read2Go checklist can also be used to determine areas of need for students during pre-assessment. This information will give you a glimpse of what your student’s strengths and weaknesses are as they relate to use of this app. Goals and objectives can then be drafted based on the outcome of the checklist.

IEP Goals and Objectives

For example:

Sample Goal

Student will download digital books using the Read2Go app (Bookshare).

Sample Objectives

Student will search for a book on the Read2Go app by TITLE with 80% accuracy.

Student will search for a book on the Read2Go app by Author with 80% accuracy.

Student will search for a book on the Read2Go app by ISBN with 80% accuracy.

Once students get a good grasp on using the Read2Go app, teachers can begin to incorporate the use of listening skills as well as reading strategies to ensure their student gleans the most benefit from using digital books.